Hula Halau ‘O Pi’ilani

Saturday we brought our daughter to Hula Halau ‘o Pi“ilani for a trial, she is 3 years old and she loved it. Everyone was so welcoming from the moment we came through the door. There was no question that we wanted to sign her up. It is so great that they teach dance, singing, language, and so much more. We are not Hawaiian, but we love the culture and values they teach. We are so excited to become a part of this «Family» and we look forward to everything we will learn.

Our daughter has been taking hula lessons from Kumu Kanani for more than a year at Halau O’Piilani. We love the true «ohana» (family) atmosphere at this halau. The keiki or children’s class is well supported with lots of assistant teachers to help guide the children through new steps or routines. Our daughter has met a great group of friends and hula mentors and is motivated to learn challenging routines through Kumu’s guidance. She is excited to perform at all the halau’s events.

I have been dancing here for eight years. Kumu Kanani is a graceful dancer and a superb teacher. We have students from 3 years old to senior citizens. You will learn Hawaiian dancing, language, culture, etc. We are truly a «family» here.

Definitely love this Halau :) Everyone in class is so nice and sweet; and Kumu, Auntie Nani & Pua are very helpful. They not only teach you dance, but also language and respect of the culture.

The nicest Halau ever! Very warming and welcoming. Kumu and Auntie Nani and Auntie Pua will help you with anything. (:

The most exciting cultural experience in all aspects. I’ve learned to play ukulele, dance Hawaiian & Tahitian and also speak Hawaiian language. My daughter is a dancer here now and is enriched with so much culture and growing her skills with every class and performance. If you are looking for a true cultural learning place as well as some amazing talent and entertainment Hula Halau O Pi’ilani is the perfect place for your entire ohana!

Best hula school in town. From beginners to advanced, they have it all. You will learn hula, Tahitian, Maori and more.

I have been a member of Halau ‘O Pi’ilani since 2006 and LOVE LOVE LOVE dancing there!!! I have learned sooooooo much about culture, language, dance, customs, costumes, and more! The learning NEVER stops! Challenging and great exercise too! Great, good times for mind and body! There is none other like our KUMU… teacher…Kanani Densing ! She takes great interest in each and every one of her students. WE ARE O’HANA (family) for life! With Aloha No and mahalo aplenty!!! Kealohilani

My daughter joined the halau a few years ago when she was 5. She loves her Kumu and aunties who all treat her like family. The older girls are great mentors to her, especially Kanani’s daughters who always take the time to patiently work with her. This is a halau that emphasizes culture and family and helps you stay connected to your Hawaiian roots.

I came to this Halau when I was a teenager and I loved it. It is family owned and at the time I came here, it was in Santa Clara under Auntie Linda’s instruction. The Halau is now run by her Daughter Toni Kanani in Sunnyvale and she is wonderful. She is truly passing on her mothers legacy.
I am happy to say that my daughter who is 5 has now taken interest in Hula and has recently joined the Halau. She absolutely loves it. She is learning so much and is building her confidence a little more each session. The Halau not only teaches the children Hula, but also a little bit of the Hawaiian culture and language. Toni Kanani also encourages friendship as she insists that the children begin each session by greeting their fellow dancers and end each session by holding hands in a circle. It’s a wonderful environment and I’m glad my daughter is a part of this Halau.

I look forward to my class with Kumu Kanani! I have learned so much from her. Her teaching style makes it easy for everyone to understand, breaking down the tricky parts, often with a funny comment so you remember it. She seems to know just what each student needs. And her singing and ukulele music are so sweet. I always leave the class with a hug and a smile!

About a year ago, I decided to try a Lunch Hour Hula class offered by Sunnyvale Recreation. It turned out not to be a beginner class, but the teacher and the other ladies were quite supportive. Because I enjoyed the class and wanted to learn more about hula dancing, I decided to join the halau (school.)
While the focus is about the dancing, we also learn about the Hawaiian culture, music and language, which all add to the understanding of hula. I find the classes to be a work out, both mentally and physically, as I am not naturally graceful. But I’ve been told that I am getting better, and I enjoy the people that I have been meeting. I love Kumu Kanani’s patience, understanding, support and humor and I both dread and look forward to her criticism to help me become a better dancer. This is truly a family, full of ohana spirit.

My daughter was 4 years old when she started with this halau (shes now 10). She has progressively grown and worked her way through the beginning keikei class to now intermediate class. She loves her halau sisters and aunties because everyone treats each other like family.
With all the fun they have, they are also well disciplined. Auntie Kanani and the rest of the aunties are great with teaching all the routines for all the different classes they provide (Different levels of dancing and ukulele classes) and keeping them focused, especially with the kids! The dancing is great. I love attending the shows and watching everyone dance in their beautiful dresses and outfits. Reminds me of being back in hawaii on our vacations.
I grew up in a music school most of my childhood life so I am excited and anxious that my daughter has found an activity that she will continue to grow in and have a place in her heart for the people she knows at this halau. I highly recommend Hula Halau O’ Piilani for anyone who is looking for a warm, friendly, fun halau for their kids, family or themselves to be part of!